Former SGF Babachir David Lawal cautioned the Federal Government against arresting former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Gregory Obi, citing dire consequences for the government.
Addressing the press, Lawal debunked accusations made by President Tinubu’s media aide, Bayo Onanuga, that Obi and the Obidient Movement were behind the planned nationwide protests tagged #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria.
He argued that using force against the protesters would be a “catalyst for chaos.”
“Bola Tinubu should not use a forceful approach with the protesters. They mean well for the country. If they go out to protest and there is an attempt to forcefully stop them, that will be the catalyst for chaos,” Lawal stated.
Lawal also called for the removal of Onanuga, criticizing his inflammatory comments.
“Tinubu should remove Bayo Onanuga from his position because he doesn’t mean well for his government.
His outbursts are inflaming Nigerians rather than pacifying them. When you are in government, you don’t insult the people.”
He expressed disbelief at Onanuga’s allegations, questioning his qualifications and behavior.
“I don’t know if Onanuga was the spokesman of the Motor Park Touts Association before he got his current appointment. They said he is educated, but it doesn’t show in his behavior. He has an in-built disdain for people, and it shows in the way he talks.”
Lawal defended Obi’s character, stating, “I don’t expect a presidential spokesman to come out and say the planned protest is being organized by Peter Obi. If Obi had the character that Onanuga is ascribing to him, this government would have been down a long time ago.”
He also highlighted the positive role of Igbos in Nigeria, defending them against Onanuga’s alleged biases.
“I really don’t know what Onanuga’s problem with Igbos is. Igbos are good people. They are our classmates from primary, secondary schools to university. They are our business partners; they are our neighbors.”
Lawal urged President Tinubu to acknowledge the genuine intentions of the protesters and refrain from actions that could heighten tensions.
He described Tinubu as a good man but warned that he is surrounded by sycophants who do not tell him the truth.